Database Management is Not Just for Tech Junkies

As data and technology get more complex by the minute, the need for database management is stronger than ever as illustrated by the proliferation of different kinds of database management software in the market. Business owners and heads of corporations know well enough to invest a considerable part of their budgets in a database management system that organizes all relevant data in an efficient manner.

Database management plays a crucial role in a wide range of industries and fields, one example of which is identity and access management. From the CIA down to the nearest 7-11, sensitive information is always gathered and stored, be it a top secret government plan or the credit card number of a customer. Sensitive information may be exposed to unauthorized access if a weak security system is in place as a result of an inefficient database management system. However, if data is managed in such a way wherein access is restricted based on the identity of the user, confidentiality of information is not compromised.

Database management is also critical in relational database management. Information can just be stored for recording purposes, but most of the time, it is accessed to complete a variety of transactions and activities. During these cases, relationships between different kinds of information must be clearly defined before any process takes place. For example, some activities have the following format: “if data A and data B are true, then process A takes place; otherwise, process B is executed.” If relationships between different kinds of data are not properly set up beforehand, it’s easy to see how processes involving them can go wrong. It is important that data is not only stored properly, but are related to each other in a meaningful manner.

Because of the importance of database management, nothing less than a skilled database manager should preside over handling databases. Companies are willing to pay high prices for people equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. Those with a strong foundation in IT, computer science, and software engineering will find a rewarding career in the field of database management. A formal background in database management, whether gained from experience or study, will surely boost one’s value in the job market.

However, database management is a field that is open not only to people with a purely technical inclination. It is true that a database manager’s skills must be technical in nature to begin with, but you can still specialize in database management without leaving your original field. You don’t have to sacrifice your primary interests and passions to pursue a different kind of rewarding career. Medicine, media, education, arts, commerce, etc.—all these industries are united by technology and information, and of course, when there are information and technology, there will always be database management.